Arcadia

Director

Wendy Ludecke Selevitch, PhD

Manager and Thousand Oaks Site Coordinator

Maureen Leigh, LMFT

My style of therapy involves a collaborative therapeutic partnership and a nonjudgmental, unbiased stance. I will provide you with the resources and support that will enable you to explore, understand, and work through the underlying core conflicts that contribute to your symptoms of avoidance, disconnect, anxiety, depression, anger, and/or unhealthy coping. The foundation of my approach is the principle of ‘Client Response Specificity’; I seek to mold therapy around your unique self and needs. I truly believe that every person has a distinct process and will need to make progress at their own pace and time. It is my intention to empower your autonomy and sense of self while helping you to conquer the baby-step changes that will lead you to achieve your goals, in therapy and in life.

I have 7+ years of experience as a Marriage and Family Therapist in community as well as private practice settings. I have helped individuals (ages 11+), couples, and families from diverse cultural backgrounds with a variety of needs and concerns. I use an assortment of evidence-based interventions to assist my clients in reaching their goals. My experience encompasses the following areas: Anxiety, Depression, Life transitions, Identity development, Mindfulness, Grief and loss, Complex trauma, Shame and self-compassion, Communication, and Conflict resolution.

I earned my MS in Clinical/Counseling Psychology from the California State University at San Bernardino. I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT# 118478) with the California State Board of Behavioral Sciences and a member of the California Association of Marriage and Family Therapists.

“You have been blessed with the immeasurable power to make positive changes in your life.”
— Steve Maraboli

Arcadia Site Coordinator

Kyle Ballentine, LMFT

I use a variety of theories in therapy as needed but focus on Cognitive Behavioral (CBT) and a Humanistic approach.  I strive to provide an extremely accepting environment with all my clients.  That’s what I love about therapy; nothing is taboo and it’s a place we can discuss anything in our lives. It’s important to be understood and heard, so I hope I can provide that for you while we find some practical steps to improve how you cope with life.

Personal interests include animals, art, comedy, games, science, and how our weird brains work.

Ranee Bose Kang, LCSW, ACM-SW, ACHP-SW

Sometimes “life happens” to us and there are things that we cannot control, such as where we were born and raised, or the family members or coworkers we have. Other times there are obvious or not so obvious choices we can make to create the life we’ve always wanted or didn’t know we wanted until we made the space to think about it. Then there are times when we wonder if we’re capable of making those choices that may impact how we experience life around us. I believe in the power of choice and one of the very first steps start with the decision to reach out and talk to someone. Everything else after that can be a chapter in your life that you create with my guidance and support.

I am a Board of Behavioral Sciences certified Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCS#24624) practicing out of the Soultenders Arcadia office. I received my Bachelors in Arts in Social Ecology at the University of California, Irvine, focusing on the study of people in their environment and how the two interact and shape each other. I concentrated in Psychology and Social Behavior, which piqued my interest in and led me to pursue a Masters in Social Work degree at the University of Southern California, with a concentration in Health. I hold a professional membership with the National Association of Social Workers and the American Case Management Association. I also hold an Advanced Certification in Hospice and Palliative Care as well as in Case Management. I have over 17 years of experience in the healthcare field, inpatient and outpatient hospital settings, and particularly with those who have been affected by a chronic illness such as cancer. My specialties include Anxiety, Depression, Adjustment Disorder, Sleep Issues, Chronic Illness, Cancer (new diagnosis, treatment, survivorship and end-stages of life), Stem Cell Transplant, Life Transitions, Caregiver Issues, Stress, Women’s Issues, Grief and Bereavement. I work with adults and the geriatric population, individuals and couples, from all ethnic, cultural, religious, spiritual and socio-economic backgrounds.

I value the connection between the mind, body and spirit and strive to help my clients discover a balance of their own. I have an Eclectic theoretical approach that draws on Psychodynamic,
Attachment, and Systems Theories, and Cognitive Behavioral, Solution-Focused and Humanistic Therapies. My bi- ethnic background and life experience have allowed me to appreciate different cultures, religious and spiritual beliefs, creating a safe space for my clients to explore their family of origin, relationships and dynamics as they have experienced it in various stages of their life. My work with clients is strengths-based, insight-oriented and person-centered, so that individualized treatment plans can be created in partnership with the client.\

Whether you have been in therapy in the past, or therapy is new to you, I hope you choose life, in any way, shape or form that speaks to you, and I hope to help you discover it. I leave you with
a passage that has impacted my life, that which may speak to you: “For what it’s worth: It’s never too late or, in my case, too early to be whoever you want to be. There’s no time limit, stop whenever you want. You can change or stay the same, there are no rules to this thing. We can make the best or the worst of it. I hope you make the best of it. And I hope you see things that startle you. I hope you feel things you never felt before. I hope you meet people with a different point of view. I hope you live a life you’re proud of. If you find that you’re not, I hope you have the courage to start all over again.” -F. Scott Fitzgerald

Psychologist

Vanui Giltaji, PsyD

My approach is rooted in the belief that healing and positive change are possible in a nurturing therapeutic environment. I specialize in working with individuals to overcome depression, anxiety, and stress in an integrative and holistic manner. Utilizing a variety of techniques, I am able to create an individualized experience designed to tap into the unique internal resources of each client. I incorporate mindfulness and meditative practices into my work with families, couples, and individuals. My goal is to help clients achieve a life rich with joy and fulfillment.

After graduating from UC San Diego with a B.S. in Psychology, I completed a doctorate in Clinical Psychology at Alliant International University. I am a Licensed Psychologist with the Ca Board of Psychology (PSY26826). I am able to offer therapy and psychodiagnostic assessment services in English and Armenian to children and adults presenting with a wide range of issues. I am located at the Arcadia office.

Licensed Therapist

Kenneth Monroy, LMFT

Therapy is a beautiful thing. However, there are so many misconceptions of what it really is. I believe the core objective of therapy is not to explore why the unwanted behaviors, the symptoms, or the diagnosis. The secret is in a good, effective mental health therapeutic relationship that lies in connecting, in a safe-holding environment, where the patient can explore and ask themselves – Why the fear? Why the pain? In my therapeutic approach with you, I will walk with you through the difficult past, and today’s present day challenges. I will slowly and compassionately explore with you how and why the initial unwanted behavior began. We’ll take a deeper look at the current feelings, emotions, triggers and patterns that influence your negative and unwanted behaviors. Imagine the emotional freedom you’ll feel as we find solutions together. From there, you’ll move forward, and rise above the adversary inside. With your permission, we’ll explore the origins of your presenting problem – and that’s when the healing begins. Through our sessions, you will gain a greater awareness and understanding of your mental health symptoms by understanding the underlying issues of what you are currently feeling. I’m excited for you, and I’m looking forward to finding solutions together.

I utilize several effective therapy approaches that will include Psychodynamic/Insight-Oriented Therapy, Cognitive Behavior Therapy, Gestalt Therapy, Solution-Focused Therapy, Strategic Family Therapy, Structural Family Therapy, and Client Centered Therapy. I have Evidence-Based certification in both Managing and Adapting Practice (MAP), and Trauma Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (TFCBT) Treatment Models which I have obtained through the Department of Mental Health (DMH). I have extensive experience working in areas of Trauma, Depression, Anxiety, Guilt, Shame, and Remorse. I especially enjoy working with Families and Couples. In addition to running a private practice, I am the Assistant Drug and Alcohol Clinical Director at

Sheer Recovery Treatment Center in San Juan Capistrano. I conduct individual mental health therapy with Dual Diagnosis patients, and facilitate group therapy. I specialize in aiding patients with their spiritual development as they incorporate a greater understanding of sobriety with true life transition and individuation.

Kenneth Monroy is a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist who has over 35 years of graduate and undergraduate experience in case management, psychology and psychotherapy. At UCLA, while earning his Bachelor of Arts Degree, a work study project with “emotionally handicapped” children stirred his emotion, and Kenneth began his life’s journey in the field of mental health. At St. Anne’s Maternity Home, he managed the Responsible Teen Sexuality Program as the program’s Education Coordinator, and also began Residential Counseling and Case Management there for pregnant and parenting adolescents. Eventually, he was introduced to the Department of Children and Family Services’ Family Preservation Program through Bienvenidos Family Services in East Los Angeles, and gained over 12 years of experience as an In-Home counselor and Program Manager. He also became interested in working with young men and their fathers through the indigenous Hoven Noble Program at the Latino Father and Family Institute. Working on his Masters Degree in Marriage, Family and Children’s Counseling at Pacific Oaks College in Pasadena, CA, he worked as a Wraparound Facilitator. Moving forward at The Center for Integrated Family and Health Services (CIFHS), he facilitated addiction recovery groups, and was an on-site high school therapist for the Baldwin Park Unified School District through DMH. He received certification in Evidence-Based Treatment Models – Managing and Adapting Practice (MAP), and Trauma Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (TFCBT).

Kenneth married in 1996, and he became a member of the Charter Oak Unified School District PTA Executive Board (Elementary School), and was also the Annual Walk-a-Thon Chairperson. Later he became the Charter Oak High School Marching Band Fundraiser Chairperson (High School). Additionally, Kenneth has fond memories as producer of the “Beneath The Surface” Radio Program with a Golden Mike Award winning team at Pacifica Radio’s KPFK 90.7FM. As lead guitarist for Highland Avenue Community Church Worship Team in Alta Loma, CA, he has received momentous inspirational connection and growth, and he is thankful for daily spiritual gifts.

Licensed Therapist

Katy Niles

Katy has been practicing for the last 4 years but has been assisting, mentoring, and guiding others in various avenues for the last 12 yrs. Katy has spent her recent time working with families and children, but very much enjoys working with individuals who are looking to improve their lives. Her specialty includes a myriad of issues including depression, anxiety, life transitions, nonactive addictions, ADHD, selective mutism, bipolar, and LGBTQ+.

Licensed Therapist

Daniela Ojeda, LMFT

I am an experienced, qualified, and registered licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT #117284) in private practice in Arcadia, CA. I am a bilingual Spanish Speaking therapist.

As a cultural sensitive therapist, I respect differences in opinions, values, and attitudes of various cultures and different types of people. My therapeutic approach includes working with diverse groups of people and understands that racial, cultural, religious, gender, and sexual identities interact with one’s beliefs and behaviors.

Everyone can find life overwhelming at times. Psychotherapy can help you to understand what you are going through and support you as you face difficult thoughts and feelings. I value your unique experience and our therapeutic sessions will be tailored to meet your unique needs, offering you the beginning of a healing process.

Psychotherapy is a unique experience for everyone, that starts with talking about whatever feelings and thoughts you wish to bring. Through the therapeutic relationship you might be to explore the shape of your feelings and what purpose they may serve for you and those around you. A better understanding and acceptance of the underlying motives of your problems can lead to a sense of integration, and positive change in your life.

Licensed Therapist

Daisy Rivera, LCSW

Hi and welcome!

I am so glad you found your way here. I’ve dedicated years of my life to discovering and mastering methods that provide a holistic and integrative answer to many mind/body/spirit ailments. I obtained my Masters in Social Work in 2004 from USC. Along with my professional career, I have been trained and certified in various Eastern modalities and am a certified yoga and meditation teacher, Reiki Level III Practitioner and Himalayan Tibetan Singing Bowls Therapist.

I know that from time to time our journeys are affected by challenges; challenges in the form of mental and emotional issues that impair our quality of life. I believe that at the core of each human being lies a powerful source of empowerment and that with support, we all can reconnect to that source. We all have a unique light to shine. And often it is through breakdowns that we are propelled to our greatest breakthroughs.

I believe in the healing power of the therapeutic relationship and my goal is to assist you to realize your true potential and create the life you see for yourself. I believe you are already whole and come with strengths and skills. Through a humanistic and integrative approach, I will hold a safe space. With compassion, empowerment, encouragement, positivity, honesty, and trust we will embark on a journey of self-discovery and self-realization.

I am so honored to share this time with you and I look forward to working with you!

¡Hola y bienvenido!

Me da gusto de que haya llegado a este espacio para encontrar apoyo.  He dedicado años de mi vida a descubrir y dominar métodos que brindan una respuesta holística e integradora a muchas dolencias de la mente, el cuerpo y el espíritu. Obtuve mi Maestría en Trabajo Social en 2004 de la USC. Junto con mi carrera profesional, he sido capacitada y certificada en varias modalidades orientales que incluyen yoga y meditación, Reiki y el uso terapéutico de cuencos tibetanos del Himalaya.

Sé que de vez en cuando somos afectados por desafíos; desafíos en forma de problemas mentales y emocionales que perjudican nuestra calidad de vida. Creo que en el núcleo de cada ser humano se encuentra una poderosa fuente de empoderamiento y que con apoyo, todos podemos reconectarnos con esa fuente. Todos tenemos una luz única para brillar. Y a menudo es a través de averías que somos impulsados a alcanzar nuestros mayores avances.

Creo en el poder curativo de la relación terapéutica y mi objetivo es ayudarle a realizar su verdadero potencial y crear la vida que ve para sí mismo. Creo que ya está completo y viene con fortalezas y habilidades. A través de un enfoque humanista e integrador, mantendré un espacio seguro y sin juicio donde pueda refleccionar y enfrentar las dificulatades que lo han llevado a buscar apoyo. Con compasión, empoderamiento, aliento, positividad, honestidad y confianza, nos embarcaremos en un viaje de autodescubrimiento y autorrealización.

Me siento muy honrada de compartir este tiempo y trabajar con usted en Español, mi lengua nativa.

Licensed Therapist

Maria E. Solano, LCSW

My guiding principle within the therapeutic milieu is that of CONNECTION. As human beings we can survive with food and shelter, but CONNECTION is what allows us to THRIVE. I will guide you in examining your own early experiences of connection/attachment, and together, we will identify the impact that it had on your cognitive, emotional, behavioral, and social development. This exploration values all aspects of identity, which includes race, gender, religion, socio-economic status, and sexual orientation. A crucial component of this work involves understanding your history of coping mechanisms, how they have served you in the past, and deciding which you no longer need or want. Identification of new healthy coping skills will involve exploration of healthy and unhealthy boundaries and conscious awareness of your needs and wants. Becoming grounded and centered in yourself is crucial to this work. Oftentimes people come to therapy with the focus of changing other people; however, the reality is that we only have the power to improve and change our own behavior. My goal is to support your emotional healing, self-improvement, and self-empowerment.

The treatment interventions that I utilize include Psychodynamic Psychotherapy which involves exploration of early psychological experience, development of coping mechanisms and use of the therapeutic relationship to create an emotionally corrective experience. Cognitive Behavioral Therapy focuses on identifying and re-framing maladaptive thought patterns. Trauma Resiliency Model achieves emotional healing by learning about the body’s response to stress response, implementing body-based non-verbal interventions that focus on regulating one’s own physiological responses.

Lastly, I have been a psychotherapist for 29 years, I received my Master’s in Social Welfare from UCLA in 1991 with a concentration treatment of Children, Teens and Families. I dedicated most of my career to providing outpatient trauma-informed care to underserved communities Los Angeles and the San Fernando Valley. I’ve worked in private practice for 10 years and transitioned to full-time private practice in October 2019. I am humbled and honored by each person who has trusted me with their mental health care. I look forward to meeting you if you believe that I am the right fit for your needs. I gladly provide a 15-minute phone consultation to support you in making that decision. I accept referrals for adults seeking Individual therapy. I also provide couple’s counseling based on a pre-screening.

Licensed Therapist

Irina Strekalova

Who I am and how I work

I am a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT #44632) in a private practice in Arcadia, CA. I work with individuals, couples and families. I assist children and adults through life’s transitions and challenges that can potentially lead to depression, anxiety, low self-image, decreased self-confidence, or behaviors they would like to change. I work with couples who want to improve their relationships and those considering marriage or separation. We will work together to figure out where you are, where you want to be, and how you can get there. I provide childhood and relationship trauma treatment if necessary to help individuals heal and move on in life.I find that cognitive-behavioral and solution-focused therapy in conjunction with mindfulness, behavior modification, EMDR (eye movement desensitization and reprocessing), TRM (trauma resiliency model) works well for most people. My approach is integrative and tailored to each individual or couple. My goal is to assist you in developing skills and strategies that you can use to bring about realistic and positive changes in your life.

My background

I grew up in Ukraine, then studied and lived in Moscow, Russia, before moving to the USA in 1994. I have two master degrees in psychology: one from Moscow State University, another from New York University. I started practicing psychotherapy in 1999 in Houston, TX, with individuals who suffered chronic pain. Since 2004 I work in Los Angeles, CA, with children, adolescents, and adults.

Professional affiliations

Trauma Resource Institute, EMDR International Association, Tourette Association of America, California Association of Marriage and Family Therapists (CAMFT), and San Gabriel Chapter of CAMFT.

Personal

I like to travel, read, hike, dance, and paint in watercolor. I speak Russian and Ukrainian.

Licensed Therapist

Tricia Walton, LMFT